APR is pleased to present the ultimate Transmission Control Unit (TCU) Upgrade for the DQ381 7-Speed DSG / S-Tronic Transmission! APR’s TCU Upgrade dramatically improves upon the DQ381 transmission’s function, drivability, and performance through a myriad of enhancement and custom features.

Normal daily driving is smoother as we’ve improved upon the normal quirks and complaints associated with the driving experience. Sporty driving is far more capable with increased torque capacity, clamping pressure, faster shifting times, more capable launch control, and more, handily shaving .2 seconds off our Stage 2 S3's quarter mile time! Both are optimized to deliver faster acceleration by matching the power output delivered by our ECU Upgrade. This all comes with customizable features you can choose while flashing the TCU to personalize the transmission to your desire! Lastly the software loads to the factory TCU through the OBD-II port, resulting in a clean and headache-free install.

Optimized part throttle drive and sport maps
At lower throttle input, the system doesn’t race towards the highest gear. In doing so, we keep the turbo spooled between shifts for a more enjoyable driving experience.

Optimized wide open throttle drive and sport maps
Shift strategy matches the output of our tuned ECU upgrades. In doing so, each gear will shift at the ideal point for the fastest acceleration.

Manual downshift lockout limit increased
In manual mode, the transmission will allow you to downshift so long as the next is below redline. This includes removal of the first gear lockout.

Lightning fast paddle response
Pulling the manual paddles results in a quicker shift with artificial delays and lag times removed and reduced.

Lightning fast shift times
Shift times are reduced to be as fast as physically and mechanically possible by the transmission. During cruise and light throttle, shift times are transitioned to a slower comfort mode.

Reduced pull-away delay
We’ve reduced the delay experienced when pulling away from a stop for a more natural driving experience.

Customizable auto up-shift behavior
When flashing the transmission, you can choose to have manual mode auto up-shift at redline or stay in gear and bounce off the limiter until you manually shift.

Customizable 3-step launch control
When flashing the transmission, you can choose your maximum launch RPM, which includes 3 launch RPMs that are selectable depending on throttle position.

Lightning fast launch control
We’ve greatly reduced the delay experienced after you release the brake pedal for a quicker reaction time when using launch control.

Launch control enabled with ESP on
Launch control can be used with ESP on. In some situation with the right setup this may improve your launch, although ESP will get in the way with too much tire slip.

Launch counter
There’s no software limit to the number of launches possible on the transmission.

Gear display active in drive and sport
Drive, sport and manual mode all display the current gear in the MFD, digital dash or virtual cockpit.